Things to Do in Armenia

About Armenia

Armenia's monasteries predate most civilizations, clinging to mountainsides like carved prayers in stone. This is the world's first Christian nation, and it shows. The intensity catches you off guard. Strangers will share homemade brandy with you within minutes of meeting. Duduk music drifts through Yerevan cafés, haunting and ancient. Lake Sevan stretches toward snow-capped peaks in profound silence. Every meal turns into a celebration. Every conversation bridges centuries. The land holds memory in its volcanic slopes, dotted with khachkars—stone crosses unique to this place. Apricot trees bloom in valleys with defiant beauty. Soviet-era buildings stand next to structures older than Rome. The contrast is jarring. Hospitality here isn't courtesy—it is sacred duty. The past lives alongside the present with startling intimacy. You won't just visit Armenia. You'll become part of an ongoing story. Written in stone. Written in song and the shared humanity you'll find around every corner.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Book marshrutkas (shared minivans) at bus stations for intercity travel—they're cheap and frequent. In Yerevan, use the GG taxi app for reliable rides. Rent cars only if comfortable with aggressive driving; roads outside cities can be challenging.

Money: Bring USD or EUR to exchange for Armenian drams at banks or exchange offices—better rates than ATMs. Carry cash everywhere; cards accepted mainly in Yerevan restaurants and hotels. Budget $30-50 daily for comfortable mid-range travel.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at monasteries (cover shoulders/knees). Remove shoes when entering homes. Armenians are incredibly hospitable—refusing food/drink repeatedly may offend. Learn 'shnorhakalutyun' (thank you) and expect emotional conversations about history.

Food Safety: Armenian food is generally very safe. Try local specialties like khorovats and dolma at family-run restaurants. Tap water is safe in Yerevan but buy bottled elsewhere. Avoid street food in summer heat; stick to busy establishments.

When to Visit

Spring (April-June) has armenia at its most enchanting, with temperatures ranging 15-25°C, moderate rainfall, and wildflower-carpeted landscapes. May is perfect for hiking and monastery visits. Summer (July-August) brings hot, dry weather (25-35°C) ideal for Lake Sevan but crowds increase accommodation prices by 30-40%. Autumn (September-November) delivers impressive foliage, pleasant 10-20°C temperatures, and harvest season—perfect for wine tours and cultural exploration. Winter (December-March) sees temperatures drop to -5-5°C with occasional snow, offering dramatic mountain vistas and 40% lower prices, though some remote monasteries become inaccessible. Peak season runs June-September with highest prices and crowds. Shoulder seasons (April-May, October-November) provide the best value and weather balance. Key festivals include Vardavar water festival (mid-July), Wine Festival (October), and Christmas celebrations (January 6). Cultural ensoiasts should visit April-June or September-October for ideal weather and fewer tourists. Adventure travelers will love summer for hiking and winter for skiing at Tsaghkadzor. Budget travelers benefit most from November-March visits, enjoying real feels without tourist markup.